Javascript is currently not enabled on this browser.Please enable Javascript for proper viewing of The Kathmandu Post website. Don't know how to enable javascript? Click here to see suggestions from google

AHRC: Don’t muzzle press freedom to protect court

Fundamental rights of the people, including the freedom of expression and media freedom, cannot be suppressed in the name of “protecting” the dignity of courts, an international rights watchdog has said.

Expressing its serious objection to the Contempt of Court Bill that the government tabled in Parliament on June 9, the Hong Kong-based Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) said if passed the bill will restrict the freedom of expression and media freedom.

“The judiciary is a vital organ of the state; it must be treated with dignity and respect. But fundamental rights cannot be taken away in the name of protecting the dignity of courts,” it said in a statement on Wednesday.

Respect for the freedom of expression and media freedom as enshrined in the UDHR, ICCPR, and the Interim Constitution of Nepal itself needs consideration, the AHRC urging the government to consider withholding passage of the bill until wide consultations with stakeholders are held.

“When powerful politicians make a mockery of court judgments that is contempt,” the rights body said, citing example of the Balkrishna Dhungel case. Dhungel, who has been convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment, remains a free man.

“The executive and judiciary have been unable and unwilling to incarcerate him. This indignity goes unmentioned,” the AHRC added. “However, legitimate questions in the media about publicly relevant facts related to newly-appointed judges have met judicial ire.”

About Us

Established in February 1993, the Kathmandu Post, Nepal’s first privately owned English broadsheet daily, is today Nepal’s leading English language newspaper, with a daily circulation of 82,000 copies. This makes the Post Nepal’s second-most widely circulated newspaper—after Kantipur daily. The Kathmandu Post is also a member of Asia News Network that has over 15 members and is known for its insightful, unbiased journalistic work of the highest calibre. Read more»